Pep Guardiola’s attention turns back to the Premier League, as City travel to the Hawthorns. Pep face Pulis for the second time this season, with the Catalan hoping to make it two from two. With rivals United and Tottenham facing off earlier in the day, City could find themselves seven points clear at the top of the table heading to next week.
Usually I do a ‘history between the clubs’ article. However, with the Carabao Cup already pairing us up, that can be found here if interested. For now, I will look at interesting points for tomorrows game.
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First off, as of now, we may not get to see Gareth Barry start. He remains a doubt for West Brom, and was an unused sub in our Carabao meeting. Of course, he has played against City since leaving, but not since becoming the most appearance record holder.
Certainly out are Craig Dawson (knee) and James Morrison (Achilles). Both of those played the full 90 minutes in the previous meeting and will be a blow for Pulis. That said, you already know how his post match conference will go. Berating Mike Jones, the referee for the fixture, and mentioning the squad values of each side.
Heading into Saturdays game the League form of both couldn’t be more different. Manchester City have won five from the last five, while West Brom are still looking for their first win in five. In fact, they opened the season with two wins from two and haven’t won one since.
If City win tomorrow it will see them make the best ever start over ten games since the Premier League began. With their record against tomorrows opponents, in the League, being undefeated in the last fifteen, and 11 straight wins, you wouldn’t bet against it.
City will be without Benjamin Mendy and, although we expect a Kompany return soon, West Brom may be too soon. In his pre-match press conference today the City Gaffer had this to say on the Captain’s injury:
"“It is much better. In the next ten days he will be coming back.”"
Team selection for this game will be interesting. I am not sure Sergio Aguero will start instead of Gabby Jesus, after playing the full 120 minutes midweek. Pep has shown he prefers Jesus over the Argentinian in games and will not let Aguero’s pursuit of the record influence him.
Next: Manchester City: Predicted line up against Baggies
One person who, on form, should certainly start is Leroy Sane. The young German International has been in scintillating form in recent games, scoring and assisting in three of the last four Premier League games. Add to that the fact he scored a brace when visiting in the Carabao cup, and he is a must start.